International Dramas: My Endless Fascination and Favorite Series

Growing up, my taste in entertainment has always been somewhat narrow, gravitating predominantly towards American movies and TV shows. However, a pivotal change in my life opened the door to a vast, enriching world of international dramas. This journey is a testament to how a simple video rental store can introduce you to a myriad of cinematic experiences, and I will share my journey, favorite dramas, and the charm of these narratives that have hooked me over the years.

Discovering a New World: From American to International Dramas

My foray into international dramas began almost by accident. It all started with my husband, who was intrigued by European and Indian (Bollywood) films. We used to frequent Blockbuster, a video rental store that is now a thing of the past. The foreign section, with its myriad of international films, became a gateway for me into a new world of storytelling that was un-American, yet undeniably enthralling. Reading English subtitles was a small price to pay for the profound experiences that these films provided me.

Falling in Love with Korean Dramas

As the years went by, my inclination towards international films shifted more towards Korean dramas. In recent years, a particular series, Vincenzo, has captured my heart. I find Korean dramas to be a compelling blend of captivating storytelling, intricate plotlines, and rich cultural elements. These dramas offer a unique platform to explore different genres and are often available for free through various streaming platforms or apps.

My Favorite Korean Drama: Vincenzo

Vincenzo is a Korean drama that I hold close to my heart. The plot centers around a former Italian Mafia consigliere who returns to South Korea to retrieve a safe full of gold. However, his mission quickly spirals into a complex and thrilling adventure where he becomes entangled in a case against a corrupt chemical company, Babel Groups. This intertwines with the story of a determined lawyer, Hong Cha Young, as they fight against the evil owner and his partners, ultimately leading to a revenge plot that starts with the killing of his mother.

My Preferences in International Dramas

Living in North America, I enjoy various international dramas, albeit with a particular preference for those from the UK, France, and Korea. Additionally, I find specific dramas from Spain, such as The Cook of Castamar, Japan, like The Makani and Fermat's Cuisine, and South Africa, such as Recipes for Love and Murder, absolutely captivating. My fascination with these dramas stems from the detailed portrayal of different cultures and mindsets, but it's important to note that television dramas are not a perfect mirror of these cultures.

When it comes to the dramas I enjoy, a few key elements resonate with me. I appreciate strong female leads who are not dominated by their male counterparts. The male leads in these dramas should understand and respect the female leads, avoiding gratuitous violence. A positive or at least satisfying ending is a must. I find it unsatisfying when dramas glorify crime or focus excessively on war and oppressive politics. Dramas that are too dark or depressing, or those with characters who are deliberately ignorant or bullies, do not appeal to me. I also have no interest in horror or dystopian dramas.

When it comes to compelling characters, I need to be emotionally invested in their journey. I prefer well-written narratives with excellent cinematic values and beautiful costuming, particularly in historical dramas. Often, these dramas are written with a female audience in mind, and sometimes, the focus is simply on food and cooking! These factors are a significant part of what draws me to a particular drama, and ultimately, what keeps me hooked for hours.

Conclusion

The journey of discovering and enjoying international dramas has been nothing short of transformative. From the thrill of renting videos to the endless viewing hours with my favourite dramas, every moment has been filled with joy, insight, and entertainment. If you're looking to expand your horizons as a drama enthusiast, these international dramas are a must-watch. Whether you're drawn to the intricate tales of Korea, the nuanced character developments in Spain, or the rich cultural stories from Japan, there's something for everyone to love in this vast and diverse world of international dramas.